father joseph benedict of the st. joseph's cathedral says his job during this transitional time is to help parishioners maintain the stability of their faith. >> inviting people to recognize that even in times of change and of turmoil, we remain steadfast in faith and that we can deal with these transitions and indeed all challenges of life within our faith and within our sense that god remains with us. >> it will definite ly take administrative part of the church. but in terms of believing in the lord, it doesn't change that. >> reporter: father benedict hopes that catholics consider this to be an experience in which to feel the continuity of the church and faith. there will be a special mass at 7:00 tonight here at st. joseph cathedral and it will include san jose bishop patrick mcgrath. they'll be celebrating the pope's retirement and praying for a smooth transition. we're live in san jose. i'm arturo santiago, nbc bay area news. >>> pope benedict xvi is the first pope in 600 years to resign. it is a very big deal.